Secular is defined as “of or relating to the worldly or temporal; not overtly or specifically religious or spiritual.” Music is defined as “sounds with distinct pitches that are arranged into melodies and organized into patterns of rhythm.” Given these two definitions, secular music is melodies that are worldly; they have no religious or spiritual theme. Since the definition encompasses such a broad scope of music, the question cannot be given a simple “yes” or “no” answer.
The Scriptures tell us that God created all things and all things were created for Him (“For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him:” Colossians 1:16). God created things like heaven, angels, cows, flowers, the world, people, etc. So if someone writes a song about cows and you choose to sing that song then you are singing about God’s creation. Is this wrong? Some Christians would say that since it does not glorify God it is most definitely wrong. But it can not be wrong as all things were created by God for His glory, things that are spiritual or physical (natural). Man has caused music to be separated into good and evil; this includes secular and non-secular. So once again, the question cannot be given a simple “yes” or “no” answer.
There are many secular (non-religious) songs which we, as Christians, clearly should not listen to. Any songs that are blatantly contrary to a Godly lifestyle, or that contain implications of a sinful nature, should be avoided. Many will argue that listening to a certain type of music does not change their character. For example, someone who listens to “Gangsta Rap” is not necessarily a gangster and may never become one. However, even though the argument is understandable, the Word tells us that we must keep our minds focused on Godly things (Phil. 4:8 and I Peter 1:13-15). We may not see or realize the impact as we listen to secular music, but it can affect us at a subconscious level which will be evidenced at some point through our words and/or actions.
Did you know that you can become ‘addicted’ to certain types of music? Young people have testified about their addiction to various types of music including Christian rock. These addictions were not caused by the content (words) of the music but by the beat and melody. It consumed their time and energy, taking up such a presence in their lives that they felt pressured to listen to it.
There are also songs which are categorized as “religious” that we should not listen to. In today’s world, some Christian artists have integrated so much of the sounds, rhythms and words of worldly songs into their own that some people will never hear the underlying messages. These songs, although labeled “religious,” were not intended to edify or praise God. There is also music that is not spiritual, but is not necessarily “against God” (i.e., classical). In these situations, no one can specifically mandate what is right and wrong. The individual should remain prayerful and allow God to guide and direct them.
The lyrics of many songs allow the listener to absorb into their spirit evil thoughts and these thoughts eventually defile them. As an individual draws closer to God and develops a more intimate relationship with Him, there will be less of a desire to allow anything to defile their body, mind, or spirit (music or otherwise).
If you fill a balloon entirely with water, it doesn’t matter who punctures it or how it gets punctured; only water will come out of it. However, if it is partially filled with oil, you don’t know what may leak out. Similarly, we as Christians need to strive to keep our minds on heavenly things so that we will always exhibit the love of the Lord no matter who or what comes against us.
Remember, music is a gift from God. It can be enjoyed in many and various forms. In all things one must use discernment as to the content of what is being said or sung. We should not listen to any music (secular or non-secular) that will cause our thoughts to be tainted or that would distort God’s love for us or interfere with our love for Him.
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The Scriptures tell us that God created all things and all things were created for Him (“For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him:” Colossians 1:16). God created things like heaven, angels, cows, flowers, the world, people, etc. So if someone writes a song about cows and you choose to sing that song then you are singing about God’s creation. Is this wrong? Some Christians would say that since it does not glorify God it is most definitely wrong. But it can not be wrong as all things were created by God for His glory, things that are spiritual or physical (natural). Man has caused music to be separated into good and evil; this includes secular and non-secular. So once again, the question cannot be given a simple “yes” or “no” answer.
There are many secular (non-religious) songs which we, as Christians, clearly should not listen to. Any songs that are blatantly contrary to a Godly lifestyle, or that contain implications of a sinful nature, should be avoided. Many will argue that listening to a certain type of music does not change their character. For example, someone who listens to “Gangsta Rap” is not necessarily a gangster and may never become one. However, even though the argument is understandable, the Word tells us that we must keep our minds focused on Godly things (Phil. 4:8 and I Peter 1:13-15). We may not see or realize the impact as we listen to secular music, but it can affect us at a subconscious level which will be evidenced at some point through our words and/or actions.
Did you know that you can become ‘addicted’ to certain types of music? Young people have testified about their addiction to various types of music including Christian rock. These addictions were not caused by the content (words) of the music but by the beat and melody. It consumed their time and energy, taking up such a presence in their lives that they felt pressured to listen to it.
There are also songs which are categorized as “religious” that we should not listen to. In today’s world, some Christian artists have integrated so much of the sounds, rhythms and words of worldly songs into their own that some people will never hear the underlying messages. These songs, although labeled “religious,” were not intended to edify or praise God. There is also music that is not spiritual, but is not necessarily “against God” (i.e., classical). In these situations, no one can specifically mandate what is right and wrong. The individual should remain prayerful and allow God to guide and direct them.
The lyrics of many songs allow the listener to absorb into their spirit evil thoughts and these thoughts eventually defile them. As an individual draws closer to God and develops a more intimate relationship with Him, there will be less of a desire to allow anything to defile their body, mind, or spirit (music or otherwise).
If you fill a balloon entirely with water, it doesn’t matter who punctures it or how it gets punctured; only water will come out of it. However, if it is partially filled with oil, you don’t know what may leak out. Similarly, we as Christians need to strive to keep our minds on heavenly things so that we will always exhibit the love of the Lord no matter who or what comes against us.
Remember, music is a gift from God. It can be enjoyed in many and various forms. In all things one must use discernment as to the content of what is being said or sung. We should not listen to any music (secular or non-secular) that will cause our thoughts to be tainted or that would distort God’s love for us or interfere with our love for Him.
View Other Answers | Submit a Question | Leave Feedback About this Question